Geological changes observed at 'Curine njive' site, cracks formed

(Patria) - The Municipal Civil Protection Headquarters of Stari Grad organized a 24-hour observation of the terrain in landslide-prone areas, specifically Curine njive, Knjeginjac, and Bistrički potok, in order to ensure the timely implementation of population protection measures.

Employees of the Civil Protection Service of the Municipality of Stari Grad Sarajevo, during a field visit to the mentioned locations on Tuesday, November 18, determined that geological changes were observed at the Curine njive site, including the formation of cracks due to atmospheric influences and soil fracturing (in the 'Curine njive below the playground' section – a part of the forest land).

During the visual inspection, it was established that water inflow from the direction of the landfill is still visible, and the soil is still saturated with moisture in the lower part below the playground itself. Soil erosion is evident, and the landslide soil is completely saturated with moisture. In the section above the nursery, i.e., in the section where the drainage channel ends, it is visible that water has filled some cracks. Due to the cessation of rainfall, a decrease in water inflow towards the landslide zone is noticeable.

At the Knjeginjac site (Municipality of Istočni Stari Grad), no new dumping of construction material was recorded. Subsidence of existing landfill material was observed, along with initial signs of erosion, indicating gradual soil consolidation and the influence of atmospheric factors.

At the landfill site, increased moisture saturation was recorded across the entire soil surface, indicating the retention of surface water. Pronounced soil erosion was observed, especially in the upper part of the landfill, where material is being washed down towards lower zones. In the lower part, a constant presence of flooded areas and water retention is evident, which further increases humidity and can contribute to terrain destabilization. Due to the cessation of rainfall, there has been a reduction in water flow towards the landslide.

In the lower part of the landfill material, a professional team from the Institute of Geotechnics and Geological Engineering of the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Sarajevo conducted geotechnical soil investigations, including the drilling of geological boreholes, and collected data necessary for assessing soil properties and developed a remediation project for the active landslide. Risk assessment – subsidence of landfill material and erosion due to atmospheric influences.

At the Bistrički potok site (Municipality of Stari Grad Sarajevo – Boguševac/Municipality of Istočni Stari Grad), the stream bed is still partially blocked by earth and stone material and fallen trees. No new degradation has been recorded, nor have any activities been undertaken to remove existing obstacles. During the visit to the stream site, no water flow obstruction was observed. The flow is free and functional. In the section above the bridge, fallen trees and rocks are still present in the stream bed, partially hindering the flow and potentially causing local water slowdowns. Therefore, their removal is recommended to maintain stable flow and prevent possible water retention or overflow, according to the statement to FUCZ.